Welty, Clara Rupp (1875-1919)

Bethel College Monthly obituary: 1919 Feb 15 p. 7

Birth date:

Text of obituary:

† MRS. B. F. WELTY †

Newton friends of Professor and Mrs. B. F. Welty were pained to learn today of the death of Mrs. Welty, which occurred at their home at Tacoma, Washington, as the result of an attack of influenza. The word came by telegraph to her brother, Otto Rupp, of Moundridge, who notified the friends here.

While it has been many years since Mr. and Mrs. Welty made their home in Newton there are many who remember her very tenderly. She had a beautiful character, was sweet and unassuming, and the most deeply appreciated by those who knew her the most intimately. Her girlhood home was near Moundridge and she came to Newton to reside when she married Mr. Welty, who was the first dean of music at Bethel college. Their first home was in rooms of the main building of the college where her influence over the student body was very potent. Later they bought a home on East Seventh street, where they resided until Mr. Welty's failing health called for a change in climate.

It was in 1906 they left Newton going to Europe for a season of study before going to their newly acquired position at Tacoma where they have resided since.

Having no children of their own, Mr. and Mrs. Welty adopted a little on who is now about 14 years of age, and it is to him that Mr. Welty must turn in his bereavement. The friends here and elsewhere feel the deepest sorrow at the passing away of this dear woman and extend the heartfelt sympathy to her husband and family.

—Newton Kansan-Republican

Bethel College also joins in extending to Professor Welty the deepest sympathy in the loss he has suffered. Mrs. Welty was well and favorably known here, first as student, and then as teacher of music, and many are the friends that deeply regret her passing away.